Viral Genomics

Intro:

Humans are constantly exposed to a plethora of viruses that cause disease. Highly infectious pathogens such as influenza virus, rotavirus, enteroviruses, and respiratory syncytial virus are a persistent public health concern. Recent outbreaks caused by West Nile, Zika, yellow fever, and Middle-East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) coronavirus remind us of the ongoing threat posed by emerging and re-remerging viruses. The virology group at the JCVI focuses on defining the genomes of viruses and characterizing virus-host interactions to better understand viral evolution, elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms that cause disease, and develop novel vaccines and therapeutics.